Arson is one of the most serious property-related crimes in Pennsylvania. From suspected insurance fraud to fires involving injury or death, local, county, and federal authorities aggressively investigate these cases, often with highly technical tools and teams of experienced specialists. Protecting yourself starts with the right legal representation if you’re being investigated or have already been charged.
At Worgul, Sarna & Ness, Criminal Defense Attorneys, we know the consequences of a conviction can be devastating. You could be facing years — even decades — behind bars. Our Pittsburgh property crime lawyers will assess your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s strategy, and fight to protect your future.
What Is Arson Under Pennsylvania Law?
Pennsylvania law recognizes multiple forms of arson, with the most serious offenses classified as felonies. You can face charges whether or not anyone was injured, even if the property in question was yours.
You don’t have to succeed in starting a fire to be charged. Even an attempt or planning an arson-related act may trigger criminal liability, especially if you’re accused of using fire to commit insurance fraud or to target another person.
Common Types of Arson Charges in PA:
Arson Endangering Persons
Felony of the First Degree
This charge applies when someone intentionally starts a fire or explosion that places others in danger, such as setting fire to an inhabited building or causing injury to a bystander or emergency responder.
Penalties may include:
- Up to 20 years in prison
- Heavy fines
- A permanent felony record
If someone dies as a result — even unintentionally — the charges may escalate to murder in the first degree, which can carry life in prison or the death penalty.
Arson Endangering Property
Felony of the Second or Third Degree
If your intent was to damage property — whether yours or someone else’s — you can still be charged with a felony. The severity depends on the circumstances:
- Second-Degree Felony (intent to damage a structure):
Up to 10 years in prison - Second-Degree Felony (unintentional death resulting from fire):
Up to 10 years in prison - Third-Degree Felony (damaging an unoccupied structure):
Up to 7 years in prison
Other Arson-Related Offenses
- Summary Offense – Starting a fire intentionally or recklessly that endangers life/property (even without damage):
Up to 90 days in jail and a $300 fine - First-Degree Misdemeanor – Failing to report or control a fire when capable of doing so safely:
Up to 5 years in prison - Third-Degree Felony – Possessing or transporting incendiary materials for arson:
Up to 7 years in prison
How Are Arson Cases Investigated in Pittsburgh?
Arson investigations are handled with extensive coordination between fire departments, law enforcement, and federal agencies.
Key Players in Arson Investigations:
- Pittsburgh Police Arson Squad and the Allegheny County Arson Response Team
- Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
- Insurance investigators, especially when fraud is suspected
To build cases, these teams use forensic fire analysis, accelerant-sniffing dogs, digital surveillance, and witness interviews. They may subpoena phone records, financial accounts, and insurance documents to show motive if fraud is suspected.
Arson cases often involve highly technical evidence, and errors in how this evidence is collected or interpreted can be powerful grounds for a defense.
What Are the Penalties for Arson in Pennsylvania?
The penalties for arson in PA depend on the charge severity, whether people were endangered or injured, and whether the fire was part of another crime (like fraud or homicide).
Criminal Penalties May Include:
- Felony of the First Degree
– Up to 20 years or life in prison
– Applied when lives are endangered or lost - Felony of the Second Degree
– Up to 10 years in prison
– For damage to occupied property or unintentional death - Felony of the Third Degree
– Up to 7 years in prison
– For damage to unoccupied buildings or possession of incendiary devices - Misdemeanor or Summary Offense
– Up to 5 years (misdemeanor) or 90 days (summary)
Collateral Consequences:
- Loss of employment or housing
- Civil lawsuits from property owners or insurers
- Ineligibility for certain professional licenses
- Irreparable harm to your reputation
Facing Arson Charges? Don’t Wait to Protect Yourself.
Arson charges often come after lengthy investigations. In many cases, authorities have already gathered evidence before you’re even aware you’re a suspect. If you’ve been contacted by fire investigators, police, or insurance agents, don’t speak to them without an attorney.
Even casual remarks can be twisted and used to support a criminal charge. You have the right to remain silent and to protect yourself with legal counsel.
Why Choose Worgul, Sarna & Ness for Your Arson Case?
Our Pittsburgh criminal defense attorneys deeply understand Pennsylvania’s arson laws and the science used in fire investigations. We’ve successfully defended clients against some of the most serious felony charges in the state.
We’ll work to:
- Challenge flawed fire forensics
- Suppress illegally obtained evidence
- Expose weaknesses in the prosecution’s theory
- Negotiate reduced charges or push for a full dismissal
We fight with experience, urgency, and an unwavering commitment to protecting your future.
Talk to a Pittsburgh Arson Lawyer Today
If you’re facing arson charges in Pennsylvania, time is not on your side. You need legal counsel who can navigate the complexities of these cases and help you avoid life-altering consequences.
Call (412) 281-2146 or fill out our online contact form for a free, confidential consultation.
At Worgul, Sarna & Ness, we’re ready to stand between you and a felony conviction — with strategy, discretion, and the experience to make a difference.
